I think it will be interesting to meet people in heaven who had one on one encounters with Jesus in Bible times.
Take Peter for example; he was always posing a question, almost trying to change Jesus’ mind, always finding a reason to “do it different.”
In Luke Chapter five we read the account of Peter and Jesus in the boat. Jesus had just finished speaking to the crowd. He instructed Peter to go out into deep water and let down the nets. I can almost hear Peter chuckle as he tells Jesus “no offense, Lord, but this is MY profession. We have fished all night and caught nothing. What makes you think…?”
He forgot that He, who created them, knew right where they were! The light went on and Peter said, “But, if you say so, I will let down the nets.”
The Bible says the catch was so huge, the nets began to break. They had to signal another boat to come along side and help with the catch! From that moment, Peter stopped fishing for fish and began fishing for men.
In John chapter 21 we read another story about Peter. It was right after the crucifixion. Peter had openly denied Christ and now, He was gone. The disciples were sitting around trying to figure it all out. Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” Some followed along and they fished all night. No fish! Someone on shore, near a charcoal fire, called out, “Any luck?” They yelled out, “No.”
“Try the other side of the boat,” the man on shore instructed.
Déjà vu! The nets could hardly hold the catch, and PETER REMEMBERED! He remembered the first fishing event, he remembered the charcoal fire when he denied Jesus in the courtyard; he remembered and jumped into the water and swam to shore! He just wanted to get close to his Master; confess his wrong, seek forgiveness.
Do you remember a time in your life when you left ALL and followed Him? But, things are different now; you’ve cooled off, lost your trust, walked away!
Try the other side of the boat! Go deep! He is waiting; right where you left Him; to welcome you back.
Rev. Judi Wiegman
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Try the other side of the boat, go deep. Very good thoughts here and you have to love Peter. He gives us hope that we can apply to ourselves and we all know how he turned out. Wonderful article!
